Noncompetitive Fluorescence Polarization Aptamer Assay for Detecting SARS-CoV‑2 Variants

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Virology

Background:

• Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants present ongoing public health challenges.
• Current diagnostics often struggle with broad-spectrum detection due to viral mutations.
• Rapid, cost-effective, and broadly applicable detection methods are crucial for surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the noncompetitive fluorescence polarization aptamer assay (NC-FPAA) for detecting SARS-CoV-2, including variants.
• To assess the assay's potential for broad-spectrum viral detection.
• To determine if NC-FPAA can serve as a rapid, simple, and low-cost diagnostic tool.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two fluorescently labeled aptamers (K1 and M40) with broad affinity for SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins.
• Conducted detection experiments using eight different SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• Assessed assay specificity against influenza viruses.

Main Results:

• The NC-FPAA demonstrated applicability for detecting multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• The assay showed potential for broad-spectrum detection, unaffected by specific mutations.
• Specificity was confirmed through testing with influenza viruses.

Conclusions:

• NC-FPAA shows promise as a diagnostic tool for rapid, simple, and low-cost detection of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• This assay can support broad and effective viral surveillance strategies.
• The method is adaptable for detecting various viral strains, aiding in pandemic preparedness.